Image processing apparatus and method for borderless printing

ABSTRACT

An image scanner might capture an image corresponding to scan region  263  which might be somewhat larger than original  262 . Image processing circuitry might then enlarge an image corresponding to scan region  263  (arrow  279 ), converting it into enlarged image  271 . Within enlarged image  271 , the image of original  262  might have been enlarged so as to become image  273 , which might be somewhat larger than printing paper  272 . This enlarged original image  273  which would be present within enlarged image  271  might then be printed by a printer. Four-sided borderless copying is possible.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional application of application Ser. No.10/797,062 filed Mar. 11, 2004, which is a Continuation-In-PartApplication of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/489,244 filed Mar. 11, 2004,which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,059,785, and which is a National StageApplication of PCT Application No. PCT/JP02/09328, filed Sep. 12, 2002.The entire disclosure of the aforementioned prior applications arehereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. This applicationclaims benefit of foreign priorities to Japanese (JP) Patent ApplicationNo. 2001-276543, filed 12 Sep. 2001, Japanese (JP) Patent ApplicationNo. 2001-399255, filed 28 Dec. 2001, Japanese (JP) Patent ApplicationNo. 2003-066271, filed 12 Mar. 2003, and Japanese (JP) PatentApplication No. 2004-038890, filed 16 Feb. 2004, the contents of whichare incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF ART

The present invention pertains to an image processing apparatus andmethod; and in particular, pertains to image processing technologysuited to a copy apparatus or a hybrid printer for carrying out scanningof images and printing of scanned images.

BACKGROUND ART

In recent years, depending upon the printer in question, it has in somecases become possible to carry out what is called four-sided borderlessprinting—in which printing is carried out over the entirety of theprinted surface of the printing paper (i.e., so as to avoid leavingunprinted margin-like regions at the four sides—or top, bottom, left,and right—thereof)—of images based on data subject to printing (see,e.g., Japanese Patent Application Publication Kokai No. 2003-053953). Inaccordance with such art, it is also possible to print to the fullhorizontal extent (i.e., so as to avoid leaving unprinted margin-likeregions at the two sides—or left and right—thereof) of printing paperwhich is long vertically such as is the case with roll paper (suchprinting being hereinafter referred to as “two-sided borderlessprinting”). Furthermore, also appearing on the scene are hybrid printersin which scanner capabilities have been added such that images capturedby means of scanner mechanisms can be directly printed onto printingpaper by means of printer mechanisms (see, e.g., Japanese PatentApplication Publication Kokai No. 2001-218025).

It has been the case with such hybrid printers, when printing is carriedout as a result of instruction to cause printer mechanism to directlyperform four-sided borderless printing of image captured from originalby scanner mechanism onto printing paper identical in size to original,that, because scan region capable of being captured by scan mechanism issmaller than entire original surface region by amount corresponding toprescribed margins (hereinafter “scanner margins”), such scanner marginsappear in unabated fashion on printing paper, making it impossible toobtain satisfactory print results. Improvement of mechanical precisionin connection with both scanning and printing in order to adjust suchdiscrepancy between scan region of scanner mechanism and print region ofprinter mechanism has been a problem from the standpoint of productcost. Particularly with respect to the aforementioned hybrid printers,because individual users represent the primary target of salesactivities, there is a strong desire to keep product costs to a minimum.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide imageprocessing technology for making it possible in the context of hybridprinter to carry out four-, three-, two- or one-sided borderlessprinting without occurrence of margin region even when image captured byscanner mechanism is printed by printer mechanism.

An image processing apparatus in accordance with one aspect of thepresent invention comprises an original stage; a scanner establishing atleast one scan region at the original stage, scanning the scan regionestablished at the original stage, and outputting image datacorresponding to the scan region; an image processor accepting input ofimage data, processing the input image data, and outputting theprocessed image data; and a controller controlling the scanner and theprocessor, and carrying out operations in accordance with any of one ormore operational modes including a first operational mode; wherein thecontroller, when carrying out operations in accordance with the firstoperational mode, controls the scanner so as to cause the scanner toestablish the scan region such that the scan region matches or is largerthan a copy subject region at the original stage and such that the copysubject region is encompassed by the scan region; and controls the imageprocessor so as to cause the image processor to accept input of imagedata corresponding to the scan region output from the scanner and tooutput enlarged image data obtained by enlarging, so as to be largerthan a dimension or dimensions of a print medium in either a horizontaldirection or a vertical direction or in both a horizontal direction anda vertical direction, image data corresponding to the copy subjectregion that is encompassed by image data corresponding to the scanregion.

One embodiment of this image processing apparatus further comprises aprinter using image data output by the image processor to carry outprinting at the print medium.

In one embodiment, the controller may assume existence of a regioncorresponding to an original placed on the original stage based on apreviously specified original size, and may deem that the assumed regioncorresponding to the original is to be the copy subject region.

In one embodiment, the controller may detect a region corresponding toan original placed on the original stage through use of the scanner, andmay deem that the detected region corresponding to the original is to bethe copy subject region.

In one embodiment, an arbitrary region at the original stage may bespecified by a user, and the controller may deem that the regionspecified by the user is to be the copy subject region.

In one embodiment, the controller may detect a copy subject discerniblewithin an original placed on the original stage through use of thescanner, may establish a region encompassing the detected copy subject,and may deem that the established region is to be the copy subjectregion.

In one embodiment, the scanner may prescan the original stage prior toscanning of the scan region and may output prescan image datacorresponding to the original stage; and the controller may detect aregion corresponding to the original based on the original stage prescanimage data.

In one embodiment, the scanner may prescan the original stage prior toscanning of the scan region and may output prescan image datacorresponding to the original stage; and the controller may detect thecopy subject based on the original stage prescan image data.

In one embodiment, the controller may control the printer so as to causea positional relationship of a print start location relative to theprint medium to vary in correspondence to a magnification employed whenthe image processor enlarges image data corresponding to the copysubject region.

One embodiment of this image processing apparatus may further compriseimage input circuitry accepting input of image data from animage-containing-data source other than the scanner; wherein the one ormore operational modes include a second operational mode; and thecontroller, when carrying out operations in accordance with the secondoperational mode, controls the image processor so as to cause the imageprocessor to output enlarged image data obtained by enlarging, so as tobe larger than a size of the print medium, a region subject to printingthat is within image data input from the image-containing-data source bythe image input circuitry.

One embodiment of this image processing apparatus may further compriseimage input circuitry accepting input of image data from animage-containing-data source other than the scanner; wherein the one ormore operational modes include a third operational mode; and thecontroller, when carrying out operations in accordance with the thirdoperational mode, controls the image processor so as to cause the imageprocessor to create superposed image data by superposing a regionsubject to printing in image data from the image-containing-data sourceinput by the image input circuitry and image data corresponding to thecopy subject region that is encompassed by image data corresponding tothe scan region which is output from the scanner, and so as to cause theimage processor to output the superposed image data.

An image processing apparatus in accordance with another aspect of thepresent invention comprises an original stage; a scanner establishing atleast one scan region at the original stage, scanning the scan regionestablished at the original stage, and outputting image datacorresponding to the scan region; an image processor accepting input ofimage data, carrying out processing on the input image data, andoutputting processed image data; and a controller controlling thescanner and the processor, and carrying out operations in accordancewith any of one or more operational modes including a first operationalmode; wherein the controller, when carrying out operations in accordancewith the first operational mode, controls the scanner so as to cause thescanner to establish the scan region such that the scan region issmaller than a copy subject region at the original stage and such thatthe scan region is encompassed by the copy subject region; and controlsthe image processor so as to cause the image processor to accept inputof image data corresponding to the scan region and output by thescanner, and to output enlarged image data obtained by enlarging, so asto be larger than a size of the print medium, image data correspondingto the scan region.

One embodiment of this image processing apparatus further comprises aprinter using image data output by the image processor to carry outprinting at the print medium.

In one embodiment, the controller may cause the scan region to beestablished such that the scan region is smaller by a prescribed scannermargin than the copy subject region; the image processor may enlargeimage data corresponding to the scan region so as to cause the enlargedimage data corresponding to the scan region to be larger by a prescribedprinter margin than the print medium in either a horizontal direction ora vertical direction or in both a horizontal direction and a verticaldirection; and the scanner margin may be smaller than the printermargin.

An image processing apparatus in accordance with yet another aspect ofthe present invention comprises an original stage; a scanner scanning atleast one scan region at the original stage and outputting image datacorresponding to the scan region; an image processor processing imagedata corresponding to the scan region from the scanner, creating printimage data, and outputting the print image data; and a controllerselecting any mode from among at least two of a plurality of varietiesof copy modes including a normal copy mode, a borderless copy mode, anda unity magnification copy mode, and controlling the image processor incorrespondence to the selected mode; wherein the controller (1) when thenormal copy mode is selected: controls the image processor so as tocause the print image data to be smaller than dimensions of the printmedium in both a horizontal direction and a vertical direction; (2) whenthe borderless copy mode is selected: controls the image processor so asto cause the print image data to be larger than a dimension ordimensions of the print medium in either a horizontal direction or avertical direction or in both a horizontal direction and a verticaldirection; and (3) when the unity magnification copy mode is selected:controls the image processor so as to cause a size of the print imagedata to be the same as a size of image data corresponding to the scanregion.

The present invention also provides an image processing method such asmay be carried out by the foregoing image processing apparatus.

The present invention, moreover, also provides a method, such as may becarried out by the foregoing image processing apparatus, of controllingscanner circuitry and image processing circuitry.

The present invention, furthermore, provides a computer program forcausing a computer to carry out the foregoing control method.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the external appearance of a hybrid printerassociated with a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of hybridprinter 1 associated with the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a drawing showing characteristic portions associated withborderless printing.

FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining adjustment of print magnificationassociated with the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining adjustment of print magnificationassociated with the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining operation of a hybrid printerassociated with the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a drawing showing copying as might occur when carrying outoperations in accordance with a NORMAL COPY MODE at a hybrid printerassociated with a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a drawing showing copying as might occur when carrying outoperations in accordance with a COMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE at ahybrid printer associated with the second embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a drawing showing copying as might occur when carrying outoperations in accordance with a QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE at a hybridprinter associated with the second embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a drawing showing copying as might occur when employing theQUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE of FIG. 9 and when printer margin 45C ischanged.

FIG. 11 is a drawing showing copying as might occur when employing theQUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE of FIGS. 9 and 10 and when printer margin 45Cis changed.

FIG. 12 is a drawing showing, in the context of a QUASI-BORDERLESS COPYMODE, a plurality of print start locations respectively corresponding toa plurality of copy magnifications settable based on printer margin 45C.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing flow of processing in connection withcopying such as might be carried out in the context of a multimodehybrid printer.

FIG. 14 is a drawing showing, during adjustment of copy magnification bypage fitting functionality in the context of a QUASI-BORDERLESS COPYMODE, a plurality of print start locations respectively corresponding toa plurality of copy magnifications settable based on printer margin 45C.

FIG. 15 is a drawing showing an example of a printer margin adjustmentscreen.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing constitution and function of theprincipal parts of a hybrid printer associated with a third embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a plan view of an original stage for explaining a scan regionin the context of four-sided borderless copying at a hybrid printerassociated with the third embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a drawing showing image size for explaining image enlargementprocessing 221 and cropping processing 232 in the context of four-sidedborderless copying at a hybrid printer associated with the thirdembodiment.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing constitution and function of theprincipal parts in an embodiment of a hybrid printer associated with afourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a plan view of an original stage for explaining an originalstage scan region during prescan and during main scan in the context offour-sided borderless copying at a hybrid printer associated with thefourth embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a drawing showing image size for explaining image enlargementprocessing 321 and cropping processing 333 in the context of four-sidedborderless copying at a hybrid printer associated with the fourthembodiment.

FIG. 22 is a drawing for explaining adjustment of print magnification inthe context of two-sided borderless copying.

FIG. 23 is a drawing for explaining adjustment of print magnification inthe context of two-sided borderless copying.

FIG. 24 is a drawing for explaining establishment of a scan region basedon a region subject to printing within an original.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing the constitution of a variation on ahybrid printer associated with the fourth embodiment.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT INVENTION

Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described withreference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the external appearance of a hybrid printerassociated with a first embodiment of the present invention. This hybridprinter 1 has scanner functionality by which it captures document(s) orother such original(s) in the form of scan image data, and has printerfunctionality by which it converts scan image data, application data,and/or other such data subject to printing into print image data andcarries out printing on printing paper. Provided at the interior ofhybrid printer 1 there is/are control apparatus(es), control beingcarried out in comprehensive fashion by such control apparatus(es) andvarious functions being implemented thereby.

As shown in same drawing, provided at the top of the main body of hybridprinter 1 there are liquid crystal panel(s) and various buttons forminguser interface(s) 11. User(s) can, by way of this user interface 11,scan original(s), give print instructions, enter various settingsrelated to conditions in connection with scan, settings related toprinting conditions, and so forth.

Furthermore, provided at the top of the main body of hybrid printer 1there are original stage(s) 12, having glass surface(s) for placement oforiginal(s), and cover(s) 13. While not shown in the drawing, providedbeneath original stage(s) 12 there are light source(s) for irradiating,with light, original(s) placed on glass surface(s) of original stage(s)12, and optical sensor(s) receiving such light after it is reflected.Upon accepting image scan instruction(s) and/or printing instruction(s)from user(s) by way of user interface(s) 11, hybrid printer 1 capturesoriginal(s) placed on original stage(s) 12 in the form of scan imagedata which is stored in prescribed data format(s) in internal memory ormemories. Hybrid printer 1 then carries out printing on printing paperbased on scan image data stored in memory or memories. Followingprinting, hybrid printer 1 discharges printing paper into discharge tray14.

Furthermore, provided at the front of the main body of hybrid printer 1there are card slot(s) 15 serving as external interface(s). Card slot(s)15 might, for example, conform to PCMCIA specification(s), and might beconstructed so as to permit insertion and removal of memory card(s) (notshown) conforming to such specification(s). When a memory card is, forexample, inserted in card slot 15 and presence thereof has beendetected, hybrid printer 1 might display a message at liquid crystalpanel(s) soliciting instruction(s) for execution of printing. Inresponse thereto, a user might perform operations for setting ofprinting conditions as necessary (or not) and might give printinstruction(s). Hybrid printer 1, upon accepting print instruction(s)from user(s), would read image-containing data recorded on memorycard(s) and carry out printing on printing paper. Following printing,hybrid printer 1 would discharge printing paper into discharge tray 14.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of hybridprinter 1 associated with the present embodiment. Processor(s) 21execute various control programs. That is, execution by processor(s) 21of various programs stored in ROM(s) 22 causes prescribed functionalityor functionalities of hybrid printer 1 to be implemented in conjunctionwith other hardware. In the present embodiment, at least user interfacefunctionality, scanner functionality, image creation functionality,print control functionality, and the like are implemented.

External interface circuitry 24 is for making it possible forprocessor(s) 21 to access memory card(s) present in card slot(s) 15.After image-containing data stored on memory card(s) is loaded intoRAM(s) 23 by way of this external interface circuitry 24, processor(s)21 create print image data based on the loaded image-containing data inaccordance with any printing conditions which may have been set.

Scanner circuitry 25 is for scanning original(s) placed on originalstage(s) 12 and capturing same in the form of scan image data. Afterscan image data captured by this scanner circuitry 25 is loaded intoRAM(s) 23, processor(s) 21 create print image data based on scan imagedata in accordance with any printing conditions which may have been set.Scanner circuitry 25 employed may be such as will accommodate imageinput technique(s) (reducing-type optical technique(s) in which lens(es)are used to scan reduced image(s) of original(s), contact-type opticaltechnique(s) in which CCD(s) as wide as original(s) are used to scanoriginal(s) at unity magnification, etc.). Furthermore, scannercircuitry 25 employed may be such as will accommodate prescribedmethod(s) for scanning of original color information (method(s)involving combination of monochromatic CCD(s) and color filter(s),method(s) employing color linear CCD(s) which themselves have colorseparating capability, etc.).

Image memory or memories 26 are for storing print image data which hasbeen created. Engine controller(s) 27 control operation of printengine(s) 28, and at the same time, read print image data stored inimage memory or memories 26 and supply same to print engine(s) 28.Activation of engine controller(s) 27 might, for example, be triggeredby command(s) to execute printing sent from processor(s) 21 at time(s)when print image data of a prescribed width of band have been expanded,the expanded data being written to image memory or memories 26.

Print engine(s) 28—comprising, for example, paper feed mechanism(s),printhead(s), and so forth—are for carrying out printing on paper orother such print medium or media. Print engine(s) 28 employed may besuch as will accommodate use in such types of printers as laserprinters, serial printers, and/or the like.

User interface circuitry 29 is for controlling user interface 111, whichis implemented by means of liquid crystal panel(s) and various buttons.

FIG. 3 is a drawing showing, in schematic fashion, characteristicportions of a print mechanism accommodating borderless printing such asmight be provided at print engine 28.

Provided in the discharge path of paper 113 which is fed by paper feedmechanism(s) within hybrid printer 1 is/are platen(s) 111 supportingpaper 113 from the side thereof opposite the side thereof which receivesthe jetted ink. Embedded within platen(s) 111, at location(s) facingpath(s) of travel of carriage(s) 115, is/are ink absorber(s) 116 forabsorbing ink jetted from printhead(s) in carriage(s) 115.

Ink absorber 116—being, for example, urethane resin—is long in adirection parallel to the direction of travel of carriage 115 and is ofconstant width in a direction parallel to the paper feed direction. Thisbeing the case, even if ink is jetted above the top edge or below thebottom edge of paper 113 in accompaniment to reciprocating travel ofcarriage 115, because such ink will be received by and absorbed by inkabsorber 116, platen 111 will not be soiled by ink jetted beyond theedges of paper 113.

Furthermore, at ink absorber 116, left edge portion 117A, right edgeportion 117D, and prescribed portions 117B and 117C therebetween, arewidened (i.e., elongated) in the paper feed direction and in thedirection opposite thereto. This being the case, even if ink is jettedto the left of the left edge or to the right of the right edge of paper113 in accompaniment to reciprocating travel of carriage 115, becausesuch ink will be received by and absorbed by ink absorber 116, platen111 will not be soiled by ink jetted beyond the edges of paper 113.Moreover, the widened portion(s) are only specific portions 117A through117D of ink absorber 116. The locations at such specific portions 117Athrough 117D in the direction of travel of the carriage respectivelycorrespond to a plurality of paper sizes for which it is respectivelypossible to carry out borderless printing without soiling of platen 111.The paper size(s) for which it is possible to carry out borderlessprinting without soiling of platen 111 may be all of the plurality ofpaper sizes which hybrid printer 1 is capable of accommodating; oralternatively, may be limited to specific size(s) representing somesubset thereof, e.g., standard A4 size (210 mm×297 mm), B5 size (182mm×257 mm), and the Japanese postcard size (100 mm×148 mm). If the sizeof paper 113 is, for example, A4 size, ink absorber 116 would absorb inkjetted beyond the left edge and right edge of paper 113 at portions 117Aand 117D; if the size of paper 113 is, for example, B5 size, inkabsorber 116 would absorb ink jetted beyond the left edge and right edgeof paper 113 at portions 117B and 117D; and if the size of paper 113 is,for example, Japanese postcard size, ink absorber 116 would absorb inkjetted beyond the left edge and right edge of paper 113 at portions 117Cand 117D.

In accordance with a constitution such as the foregoing, soiling ofplaten 111 by ink jetted beyond paper 113 does not occur even whenborderless printing is carried out (note that more specific detail withrespect to the constitution described with reference to FIG. 3 can befound in the specifications and drawings attached to patent applicationspreviously filed by the present applicant (Japanese Patent ApplicationNos. 2000-275965 and 2000-295861). Borderless printing may be carriedout responsive to user request when in hybrid printer mode(s) and/orprinter mode(s), described below.

In the present embodiment, printing may be carried out with printmagnification being adjusted during creation of print image data basedon scan image data captured under the control of scanner circuitry 25 insuch manner as to cause printed image(s) to be enlarged relative tooriginal image(s) by amount(s) such as would not appear visually strangeto user(s).

Print magnification(s) (i.e., enlarging magnification(s) applied to scanimage data in order to create print image data) may be adjusted asfollows in correspondence to dimensional and/or positionalrelationship(s) between original(s) on original stage(s) and scanregion(s) scanned by scanner mechanism(s). For example, where scanregion(s) is or are established so as to be size(s) matching and/orlarger than original(s) and so as to encompass original(s) therewithin,print magnification(s) may be adjusted so as to cause size(s) ofimage(s) of original(s) encompassed by image(s) of scanned scanregion(s) to correspond to printing paper size(s). Moreover, where scanregion(s) is or are established so as to be size(s) smaller thanregion(s) inside perimeter(s) of original(s) and so as to be encompassedby original region(s), print magnification(s) may be adjusted so as tocause image(s) of scanned scan region(s) to correspond to printing papersize(s). Here, when it is said that image(s) of scan region(s) and/ororiginal region(s) “correspond to printing paper size(s),” rather thanmeaning that image(s) of scan region(s) and/or original region(s) mustnecessarily perfectly match and be coextensive with printing paper, thismeans that image(s) of scan region(s) and/or original region(s) maypreferably be enlarged so as to be slightly larger than printing papersize(s) such that outside edge portion(s) of image(s) of scan region(s)and/or original region(s) extend small distance(s) beyond outside edgeboundary or boundaries of printing paper so as to accommodate error(s)in control of print position(s). Print magnification is defined based onthe relationship between scan region(s) and actual original size(s), aprint magnification of on the order of 104% to 106% being preferred, anda print magnification of on the order of 105% being still morepreferred, so as to not appear strange to user(s).

In more specific terms, as an example of the former, where—as shown inFIG. 4—an original 600 is captured at hybrid printer 1 with A4 sizebeing specified as original size, scan region 602 might be establishedsuch that scan region 602 matches the A4-size original 600 or such thatscan region 602 is slightly larger than original 600 and encompassesoriginal 600, and this scan region 602 might be scanned. In such case,the outside edge portion 604 (the region indicated by cross-hatching)extending beyond original 600 within scan region 602 would be asuperfluous region which is not supposed to appear in the print results.In the event that it is specified that four-sided borderless printing isto be carried out on A4-size printing paper, hybrid printer 1 causesscan image data (image data corresponding to scan region 602) to beenlarged in correspondence to the print magnification as indicated bythe arrows drawn with dashed lines. The print magnification at this timeis adjusted so as to cause the size (here, the horizontal and verticaldimensions) of original image 608 within enlarged scan image 610 tocorrespond to the size (A4) of printing paper 606; i.e., so as to causeenlarged original image 608 to be slightly larger than printing paper606 in the horizontal and vertical directions and so as to encompassprinting paper 606. Hybrid printer 1 discards the portion (the regionindicated by cross-hatching) outside original image 608 within enlargedscan image 610, and uses data corresponding to original image 608 tocarry out printing. This being the case, superfluous region 604 withinthe aforementioned scan region 602 is not printed and it is possible toobtain print results capable of satisfying users when four-sidedborderless printing is carried out. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 22, inthe event that it is specified that two-sided borderless printing is tobe carried out at continuous printing paper 630 such as roll paper whichis long in vertical direction (typically the paper feed direction) 632,the aforementioned print magnification is adjusted so as to cause thesize (here, the dimension in horizontal direction 634) of original image608 within enlarged scan image 610 to correspond to the size (here, thedimension in horizontal direction 634) of printing paper 630; i.e., soas to cause enlarged original image 608 to be slightly larger thanprinting paper 630 in horizontal direction 634 and so as to encompassthe region corresponding to printing paper 630 in horizontal direction634. Note that because this print magnification is applied not only tothe horizontal dimension of scan image 608 but is likewise applied tothe vertical dimension thereof (i.e., the ratio between the horizontaland vertical dimensions of scan image 608 is preserved duringmagnification), scan image 608 is also enlarged in the verticaldirection. As shown in FIG. 22, in the event that the bottom edge ofprinting paper 620 (the lead edge in the paper feed direction) is to becut, positioning of enlarged original image 608 relative to printingpaper 620 during printing processing is carried out such that enlargedoriginal image 608 extends slightly beyond the bottom edge of printingpaper 620 so as to achieve printing that is borderless at threesides—the left, right, and bottom—of printing paper 620.

Furthermore, as an example of the latter, where—as shown in FIG. 5—anoriginal 600 is captured at hybrid printer 1 with A4 size beingspecified as original size, scan region 620 might be established suchthat scan region 620 is smaller than the A4-size original 600 and isencompassed by that original 600, and this scan region 620 might bescanned. In such case, the outside edge portion 622 (the regionindicated by cross-hatching) extending beyond scan region 620 withinoriginal 600 would not be scanned. In the event that it is specifiedthat four-sided borderless printing is to be carried out on A4-sizeprinting paper, hybrid printer 1 causes scan image data (image datacorresponding to scan region 620) to be enlarged in correspondence tothe print magnification as indicated by the arrows drawn with dashedlines. The print magnification at this time is adjusted so as to causethe size (here, the horizontal and vertical dimensions) of enlarged scanimage 624 to correspond to the size (A4) of printing paper 606; i.e., soas to cause enlarged scan image 624 to be slightly larger than printingpaper 606 in the horizontal and vertical directions and so as toencompass the region corresponding to printing paper 606. This being thecase, it is possible to obtain print results capable of satisfying userswhen four-sided borderless printing is carried out. Furthermore, asshown in FIG. 23, in the event that it is specified that two-sidedborderless printing is to be carried out at continuous printing paper630 such as roll paper which is long in vertical direction (typicallythe paper feed direction) 632, the aforementioned print magnification isadjusted so as to cause the size (here, the dimension in horizontaldirection 634) of enlarged scan image 624 to correspond to the size(here, the dimension in horizontal direction 634) of printing paper 630;i.e., so as to cause enlarged scan image 624 to be slightly larger thanprinting paper 630 in horizontal direction 634 and so as to encompassthe region corresponding to printing paper 630 in horizontal direction634. Note that because this print magnification is applied not only tothe horizontal dimension of scan image 620 but is likewise applied tothe vertical dimension thereof (i.e., the ratio between the horizontaland vertical dimensions of scan image 620 is preserved duringmagnification), scan image 620 is also enlarged in the verticaldirection. As shown in FIG. 23, in the event that the bottom edge ofprinting paper 620 (the lead edge in the paper feed direction) is to becut, positioning of enlarged original image 608 relative to printingpaper 620 during printing processing is carried out such that enlargedoriginal image 608 extends slightly beyond the bottom edge of printingpaper 620 so as to achieve printing that is borderless at threesides—the left, right, and bottom—of printing paper 620.

At the examples shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 22, and 23, hybrid printer 1establishes scan region 602 or 620 based on original 600 at originalstage 12. In such case, prior to establishing scan region 602 or 620, itis necessary for hybrid printer 1 to identify where original 600 is onthe original stage. To this end, hybrid printer 1 may employ method(s)in which original(s) 600 is/are detected, method(s) in whichexistence(s) of original(s) 600 is/are assumed, and method(s) in whichregion(s) corresponding to original(s) 600 is/are specified by user(s).In a method in which original 600 is detected, prior to establishingscan region 602 or 620, hybrid printer 1 might scan the entire originalstage 12 during what is called prescanning, and original 600 might beautomatically detected through processing of the image of the entirescanned original stage 12 (e.g., a region within the scanned originalstage image at which brightness values are higher than a prescribedthreshold might be extracted, and the extracted region might beidentified as the region corresponding to original 600). In a method inwhich existence of original 600 is assumed, a region on the originalstage preestablished in correspondence to the size of original 600 asspecified by the user might be assumed to be original 600 (e.g., in theevent that A4 size is specified by the user, a rectangular region whichis 210 mm in a vertical direction and 297 mm in a horizontal directionfrom a prescribed corner (origin) of the original stage might be deemedto be original 600). In a method in which the region corresponding tooriginal 600 is specified by the user, hybrid printer 1 might carry outprescanning and might display an image of the scanned original stage soas to permit the user to select an arbitrary region within the displayedoriginal stage image, and the region selected by the user might beassumed to be original 600.

As described above, at the examples shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 22, and 23,hybrid printer 1 establishes scan region 602 or 620 based on original600 at original stage 12. However, in a variation thereof, hybridprinter 1 might establish scan region(s) based not on original(s) 600itself or themselves, but based on region(s) which is/are subset(s) oforiginal(s) 600; particularly region(s) at which specific copysubject(s) is/are discernible (e.g., specific character(s), characterstring(s), photograph(s), picture(s), graphic(s), any combinationhereof, etc.). FIG. 24 shows such an example. As shown in FIG. 24,character string 640 and/or photograph (or picture) 642 might, forexample, be discernible within original 600. Taking, for example, thecase where the copy subject is only character string 640 within original600, hybrid printer 1 might establish scan region 646 and/or 648 basedon region 644 corresponding to character string 640 within original 600.Here, scan region 646 would be established so as to match or be slightlylarger than region 644 corresponding to character string 640. On theother hand, scan region 648 would be established so as to be slightlysmaller than region 644 corresponding to character string 640. Or takingas another example the case where the copy subject is only photograph642 within original 600, hybrid printer 1 might establish scan region650 and/or 652 based on photograph 642 within original 600. Here, scanregion 650 would be established so as to match or be slightly largerthan photograph 642. On the other hand, scan region 652 would beestablished so as to be slightly smaller than photograph 642. Beyond theforegoing, no special description will be made in the presentspecification with respect to operation and function of hybrid printer 1in the context of establishment of scan region(s) based on region(s)corresponding to copy subject(s) within original(s) such as has beenmentioned. That is, description is hereinafter focused on operation andfunction of hybrid printer 1 in the context of establishment of scanregion(s) based on region(s) corresponding to original(s) on originalstage(s). However, in the description of the operation and function ofhybrid printer 1 which follows and in the foregoing description madewith reference to FIGS. 4, 5, 22, and 23, by reading “copy subject(s)within original(s)” where the term “original” or “original(s)” appearstherein, the description may be understood to also apply toestablishment of scan region(s) based on region(s) corresponding to copysubject(s) within original(s). Accordingly, from the descriptioncontained in the present specification, one skilled in the art willreadily understand operation and function of hybrid printer 1 in thecontext of establishment of scan region(s) for region(s) correspondingto specific copy subject(s) within original(s) as similar to thatoccurring in the context of establishment of scan region(s) based onregion(s) corresponding to original(s).

FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining operation of hybrid printer 1associated with the present embodiment. At same FIG., the series ofprocessing steps occurring following capture of original(s) in the formof image(s) by means of scanner functionality up to the point in timewhen printing thereof is carried out by means of printing functionalityis shown in a single flowchart.

To with, when a user places an original on original stage 12, closescover 13, and operates user interface 11 so as to give image scaninstruction(s) and/or printing instruction(s), hybrid printer 1, underthe control of scanner circuitry 209, controls the scanner mechanism andcarries out operations for scanning of the original, the scanned imagebeing temporarily stored at RAM 23 in the form of scan image data (step501). Following completion of scanning by the scanner mechanism, hybridprinter 1 converts the scan image data into print image data which isexpanded, the expanded data being written to image memory 26. At thistime, hybrid printer 1 carries out conversion into image data consistentwith a print magnification (e.g., 105%) which has been previously set soas to cause the print image to be enlarged relative to the initial image(original image) (step 502). Moreover, following conclusion ofconversion into image data, hybrid printer 1 supplies the image datawhich has been stored in image memory 26 to print engine 28, and carriesout printing on printing paper (step 503). Note also that supply ofprint image data to print engine 28 may be initiated at the stage whereprint image data of a prescribed width of band(s) have been stored atimage memory 26.

As described above, in accordance with the present embodiment, becauseprint image data is created based on captured scan image data with printmagnification being adjusted in such manner as to cause printed image(s)to be enlarged relative to original image(s) by amount(s) such as wouldnot appear visually strange to user(s) and printing is carried out inaccordance with such created print image data, even where scan region(s)during capture of image(s) contain superfluous region(s) and/or containmargin-like region(s) in the event that it is not possible to capturethe entire original, such superfluous region(s) and/or margin-likeregion(s) will not appear in print results and it is possible to obtainresults capable of satisfying users when four-sided borderless printingis carried out. In particular, the present embodiment makes it possibleto address user demand with respect to ability to achieve satisfactoryfour-sided borderless printing while keeping product cost to a minimumand without the need to improve the mechanical precision of the scannermechanism and/or the print mechanism.

Next, a second embodiment of a hybrid printer in accordance with thepresent invention will be described.

Such a hybrid printer might, for example, have a constitution such as isshown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and might, moreover, be provided not only withhybrid printer functionality but also with functionality permitting itto also serve as standalone image scanner and functionality permittingit to also serve as standalone inkjet printer. Such a hybrid printermight have user-selectable scanner mode(s), printer mode(s), and hybridprinter mode(s), such modes being capable of being entered inalternative fashion in response to user request; i.e., such hybridprinter might be capable of being used in multimode fashion (such ahybrid printer will hereinafter be referred to as a “multimode hybridprinter”).

In the event that scanner mode has been specified, the multimode hybridprinter might carry out processing whereby image(s) of original(s)placed at prescribed location(s) on original stage(s) is/are opticallyscanned, scan image data is created, and such scan image data is sent topersonal computer(s) and/or other such host apparatus(es), not shown. Inthe event that printer mode has been specified, the multimode hybridprinter might carry out processing whereby print image data is receivedfrom host apparatus(es), not shown, and image(s) represented by suchprint image data is/are printed on user-specified printing paper. In theevent that hybrid printer mode has been specified, the multimode hybridprinter might carry out processing whereby print image data is createdbased on scan image data created as a result of scanning of original(s)placed on original stage(s), and print image(s) represented by suchprint image data is/are printed on user-specified printing paper.

Provided at control panel(s), not shown, provided at the multimodehybrid printer there are a plurality of buttons for entering desiredsetting(s) at and/or giving desired command(s) to the multimode hybridprinter, and display screen(s) at which current mode setting(s) of themultimode hybrid printer, status(es) of the multimode hybrid printer,and/or the like may be displayed. User(s) can use such control panel(s)to switch among scanner mode(s), printer mode(s), and hybrid printermode(s). Furthermore, within hybrid printer mode, user(s) can use suchcontrol panel(s) to selectively specify NORMAL COPY MODE(S), COMPLETELYBORDERLESS COPY MODE(S), and/or QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE(S), describedbelow, and/or to enter settings with respect to number (sets) of copies.

Below, referring to FIG. 7 and following FIGS., a multimode hybridprinter operating in NORMAL COPY MODE(S), COMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPYMODE(S), and/or QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE(S) will be described indetail.

FIG. 7 is a drawing showing results of copying as might occur when inNORMAL COPY MODE. Note that, in order to simplify the description whichfollows, as shown in this drawing the size of original 43 and the sizeof printing paper 47 are assumed to be identical, and copy magnificationis assumed to be “unity magnification” (and the same is also assumed tobe true with respect to FIGS. 8 through 11, below).

NORMAL COPY MODE is a mode for causing the image of original 43 to becopied with margin-like space(s). Notwithstanding that other mode(s)calling for the image of original 43 to be copied without border(s)(i.e., COMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE and/or QUASI-BORDERLESS COPYMODE) may have been set, NORMAL COPY MODE is the mode that willautomatically be entered in the event that the size of printing paper 47is not among the aforementioned specific size(s) accommodatingborderless printing.

In NORMAL COPY MODE, normal-copy printer margin(s) 45A (e.g., +3 mm)is/are set such as is/are sufficient to definitively prevent ink frombeing jetted beyond the edges of printing paper 47 due to variation inprint start location (or, stated from a different perspective, such asis/are sufficient to definitively cause formation of margin-like spacesat the top, bottom, left, and right edges of printing paper 47 despitevariation in print start location).

Furthermore, in NORMAL COPY MODE, scanner margin(s) 41 is/are set suchas will permit the image of original 43 to be definitively scanneddespite variation in original scan start location. Scanner margin(s) 41is/are ordinarily set to value(s) (e.g., 1.5 mm) which is/are smallerthan normal-copy printer margin(s) 45A (similar value(s) also being setfor same in the other modes COMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE andQUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE). The reason for this is that it is possibleto achieve a mechanical precision with image scanner 23 that is higherthan that of printer 24, as a result of which it is possible to achievea variation in original scan start location that is smaller than thevariation in print start location.

Copying might take place as follows when in NORMAL COPY MODE.

To with, at original 43 which has been placed on an original stage, animage scanner might scan the locus (i.e., scan region) 44 to theinterior of previously set scanner margin 41. As a result, scannercircuitry creates scan image data representing scan image 80 presentwithin scan region 44.

Processor(s) within the multimode hybrid printer correct the size ofscan image 80 represented by scan image data, transforming it into asize such as will fit inside region (print region) 100 on printing paper47 which is stepped inward from the edge(s) of printing paper 47 by theamount of normal-copy printer margin 45A, creating print image datarepresenting scan image 44A which has been corrected in size, and causescan image 44A to be printed on printing paper 47 based on that printimage data.

More specifically, based on normal-copy printer margin 45A, processor(s)within the multimode hybrid printer crop portion(s) 44B, identical inwidth to normal-copy printer margin 45A, from portion(s) containing theright edge and bottom edge of scan image 80. Moreover, from portion(s)containing the top edge and left edge of the rectangular region whichremains after cropping, processor(s) crop portion(s) 44C containing themargin(s) remaining after scanner margin 41 is subtracted fromnormal-copy printer margin 45A (portion(s) 44C may, instead of beingportion(s) containing the top edge and left edge, be portion(s)containing the bottom edge and right edge). In addition, processor(s)control engine controller(s) such that printing is carried out on paper47 so as to cause the portion 44A to be printed which remains after theaforementioned portion(s) 44B and portion(s) 44C have been cropped fromscan image 80 (i.e., the scan image after correction in size) to bepositioned in the center of printing paper 47 (i.e., so as to cause thecenter of the portion 44A to be printed to coincide with the center ofprinting paper 47). As a result, margin-like spaces equal to normal-copyprinter margin 45A are formed in the vicinities of the top, bottom,left, and right edges of printing paper 47 on which the portion 44A tobe printed has been printed. Note that the print start location forcausing the portion 44A to be printed to be positioned in the center ofpaper 47 may, with the upper left corner of the portion 44A to beprinted serving as reference point, have been determined in advance ormay be determined based on calculation performed during printing of eachpage.

By means of a method such as the foregoing, it is possible to carry outcopying at unity magnification with formation of margin-like spacesequal to printer margin 45A even where scanner margin 41 is smaller thanprinter margin 45A.

FIG. 8 is a drawing showing results of copying as might occur when inCOMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE.

COMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE is a mode for causing the image oforiginal 43 to be copied completely without formation of margin-likespace(s) (execution of this mode may not be possible unless, forexample, the size of printing paper 47 is among the aforementionedspecific size(s) accommodating borderless printing).

In COMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE, scan image 80 is printed on printingpaper 47 such that it is enlarged so as to be a size which is largerthan the size of printing paper 47. As scan image size(s) which willdefinitively ensure successful borderless printing, considering thevariation in print start location attributable to the mechanicalprecision of the print mechanism of the multimode hybrid printer, where,for example, the scan image is disposed in the center of paper 47,size(s) might be employed such as is/are sufficient to cause such imageto extend at least approximately 3 mm beyond the top, bottom, left, andright edges of the printing paper. Considering the width(s) of suchoverextending portion(s) 200 to be “printer margin(s)” under a broaddefinition of that term, completely-borderless-copy printer margin 45Bis set in advance and copying is carried out based on this printermargin 45B when in COMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE.Completely-borderless-copy printer margin 45B, which is such as to causethe size of the printed image to be a size definitively extending beyondthe edges of paper 47 and which is thus set with the intention ofcausing printing to be carried out such that margin-like space(s) aredefinitively not formed, is in a symmetric relationship with normal-copyprinter margin 45A, which is such as to cause the entire printed imageto definitively fit within the confines of paper 47 and which is thusset with the intention of preventing jetting of ink beyond the edges ofpaper 47 and soiling of platen 111. In the present embodiment,therefore, the size of normal-copy printer margin 45A will berepresented by a positive value, and completely-borderless-copy printermargin 45B will be represented by a negative value (e.g., −3 mm).

Now, copying might take place as follows when in COMPLETELY BORDERLESSCOPY MODE.

To with, scanner circuitry acquires scan image 80 by scanning an imageof the region (i.e., scan region) on original 43 which is stepped inwardfrom the edge(s) of original 43 by the amount of previously set scannermargin 41.

Processor(s) within the multimode hybrid printer enlarge acquired scanimage 80, creating image 80A, consistent with printer margin 45B. Note,however, that the magnification by which image 80A is enlarged at thistime is definitively less than would be the case were conventionalborderless-printing printer technology to be applied withoutmodification to a conventional hybrid printer. The reason for this isthat, in the present embodiment, scanner margin 41 is not set so as tobe equal in size to the large printer margin 45A employed for normalcopying but is set to a small size consistent with the high mechanicalprecision of the scanner mechanism. As a result, copying can be carriedout at magnification(s) close to unity magnification even whenborderless copying is being carried out.

Now, having enlarged scan image 80 and transformed it into image(hereinafter “enlarged scan image”) 80A, processor(s) control enginecontroller(s) so as to cause enlarged scan image 80A to be printed onpaper 47 such that center C1 of original 43 at enlarged scan image 80Acoincides with center C2 of printing paper 47 representing copy results.As a result, an image of the scan region of original 43 is copied inborderless fashion at the center of printing paper 47 (but note thatsince scan image 80 is enlarged so as to be larger than the size ofprinting paper 47, this does not mean that the entire expanse of scanimage 80 will fall on paper 47). Note that the print start location forcarrying out such copying may have been determined in advance or may bedetermined based on calculation performed during printing of each page.

FIG. 9 is a drawing showing results of copying as might occur when inQUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE.

QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE is a mode for obtaining a borderless image ofan original but at magnification(s) closer to desired copymagnification(s) (e.g., unity magnification) than would be the case withCOMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE.

In QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE, the printer margin(s) (hereinafter“quasi-borderless-copy printer margin(s)”) 45C which is/are set is/areof size(s) (e.g., −1.5 mm) smaller than normal-copy printer margin(s)45A (e.g., +3 mm) but larger than completely-borderless-copy printermargin(s) 45B (e.g., −3 mm). This being the case, in QUASI-BORDERLESSCOPY MODE, enlarged scan image 80B is, when printed, larger than a sizesuch as will fit inside the region on printing paper 47 which is steppedinward from the edge(s) of printing paper 47 by the amount ofnormal-copy printer margin 45A, but smaller than the size of scannedimage 80A as printed when in COMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE. As aresult, when copying is carried out in QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE, itwill be the case either that absolutely no margin-like space is formedor, if margin-like space(s) is/are formed, that margin-like space(s)narrower in width than would be the case with NORMAL COPY MODE is/areformed at at least one edge of printing paper 47. Because copying may becarried out completely without formation of margin-like space(s), itwill not be possible to execute QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE unless thesize of printing paper 47 is among the aforementioned specific size(s)accommodating borderless printing, just as was the case with COMPLETELYBORDERLESS COPY MODE.

Copying may be carried out in QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE in the samefashion as in COMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE.

To with, scanner circuitry acquires scan image 80 by scanning an imageof the region on original 43 which is stepped inward from the edge(s) oforiginal 43 by the amount of previously set scanner margin 41.

Processor(s) within the multimode hybrid printer enlarge acquired scanimage 80 and create image (hereinafter “enlarged scan image”) 80Bconsistent with printer margin 45C. The magnification of enlarged scanimage 80B at this time is less than would be the case with COMPLETELYBORDERLESS COPY MODE, as was stated above. As a result, in the eventthat borderless printing is successful, the image produced as a resultof copying will be an image which is closer to the desiredmagnification(s) (e.g., unity magnification) than would be the case fora borderless image produced in COMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE.

Now, having created enlarged scan image 80B, processor(s) control enginecontroller(s) so as to cause enlarged scan image 80B to be printed onpaper 47 such that center C1 of original 43 at enlarged scan image 80Bcoincides with center C2 of printing paper 47 representing copy results.As a result, image 80 of the scan region of original 43 can be copied inborderless fashion at the center of printing paper 47. Note that theprint start location for carrying out such copying may have beendetermined in advance or may be determined based on calculationperformed during printing of each page.

Above, QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE has been described. Note that, in thismode, printer margin(s) 45C may be any size whatsoever so long as theaforementioned condition is satisfied (i.e., printer margin(s) 45C mustbe within the range from normal-copy printer margin 45A tocompletely-borderless-copy printer margin 45B). For example, as shown inFIG. 10, employing a quasi-borderless-copy printer margin 45C of 0 mmwill permit (but not definitively however) execution of completelyborderless copying at copy magnification(s) closest to that or thosedesired by user(s) (e.g., unity magnification). Furthermore, as shown inFIG. 11, employing a quasi-borderless-copy printer margin 45C of 1.5mm—the same as scanner margin 41—will permit execution of substantiallycompletely borderless copying (some small margin-like space(s) beingformed) but at copy magnification(s) exactly matching that or thoserequested by user(s) (in which case, scan image 80 may be printedwithout modification or may be printed after first cropping awaytherefrom prescribed portion(s) 44D consistent withquasi-borderless-copy-mode printer margin 45C).

Furthermore, in QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE, quasi-borderless-copyprinter margin 45C may be automatically adjusted within theaforementioned range in accordance with prescribed algorithm(s) (e.g.,based on the state of the multimode hybrid printer). More specifically,automatic adjustment of magnification(s) of scan image 80 within aspecific range (e.g., within a range from 100% to 105% where the copymagnification desired by the user is 100% (unity magnification)) mightcause quasi-borderless-copy-mode printer margin 45C to be automaticallyadjusted within the aforementioned range. Referring to the example shownin FIG. 12, in the event that the magnification of scan image 80 isadjusted, the print start location of scan image 80A as enlarged basedon adjusted magnification may itself be adjusted based on calculationand/or preprepared table(s) (table(s) recording respective print startlocation(s) corresponding to respective magnification(s)).

Below, referring to FIG. 13, flow of processing in connection withcopying such as might be carried out in the context of theaforementioned multimode hybrid printer is described. Note that, in thedescription which follows, original and printing paper sizes are forconvenience of description assumed to be identical, and printing papersize(s) are assumed to be size(s) accommodating completely borderlesscopying. Furthermore, the copy magnification specified by the user isassumed to be unity magnification.

When a copy start button (not shown) on a control panel is pressed, themultimode hybrid printer begins copying (step S0).

At such time, in the event that the mode specified by the user is NORMALCOPY MODE (NORMAL COPY MODE at S1), flow of processing might be asfollows (note that the following description is made with reference toFIG. 13).

That is, an image of the original placed on the original stage is firstscanned (S2) consistent with scanner margin 41 (e.g., 1.5 mm), and scanimage 80 is acquired. In addition, this scan image 80 is croppedconsistent with normal-copy printer margin 45A (e.g., 3 mm), perimeterportion(s) 44B and portion(s) 44C thereof being removed therefrom in themanner as has already been described (S3). Print start location(s) ofportion(s) 44A which remain after cropping is/are adjusted based oncalculation and/or preprepared table(s) as described above (S8), andportion(s) 44A is/are thereafter printed at the approximate center ofprinting paper 47 (S9).

Furthermore, at the start of copying (step S0), in the event that themode specified by the user is COMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE(COMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE at S1), flow of processing might be asfollows (note that the following description is made with reference toFIG. 12 and with reference to FIG. 7).

That is, an image of the original placed on the original stage is firstscanned (S4), and scan image 80 is acquired. In addition, this scanimage 80 is enlarged consistent with completely-borderless-copy printermargin 45B (e.g., −3 mm) (S5). Print start location(s) of enlarged scanimage(s) 80A is/are adjusted based on calculation and/or prepreparedtable(s) as described above (S8), and enlarged scan image(s) 80A is/arethereafter printed on printing paper 47 (S9).

Furthermore, at the start of copying (step S0), in the event that themode specified by the user is QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE(QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE at S1), flow of processing might be asfollows (note that the following description is made with reference toFIG. 13 and with reference to FIGS. 9 through 11).

That is, an image of the original placed on the original stage is firstscanned (S11), and scan image 80 is acquired. In addition, the size ofthis scan image 80 is corrected (i.e., is enlarged somewhat (e.g.,enlarged at some magnification between 101% and 105%) or specificportion(s) is/are cropped away therefrom) consistent withquasi-borderless-copy printer margin 45C (quasi-borderless-copy printermargin 45C being, e.g., some value within the range from +3 mm to −3 mm)which may have been set in advance or which may be calculated at thistime, i.e., at the time of copying, using a prescribed algorithm (S7)(but note that correction is unnecessary in the special case where thesize of quasi-borderless-copy printer margin 45C is the same as the sizeof scanner margin 41). Print start location(s) of the size-correctedimage(s) is/are adjusted based on calculation and/or prepreparedtable(s) as described above (S8), and the size-corrected image(s) is/arethereafter printed on printing paper 47 (S9). The foregoing is asequence of operations in connection with copying such as might becarried out in the context of a multimode hybrid printer associated withthe present embodiment.

Moreover, in this sequence of operations, if the sizes of original 43and paper 47 are different, the multimode hybrid printer mightautomatically adjust copy magnification (i.e., might automaticallyadjust the size of the image of the scanned original) based on thedifference in sizes of original 43 and paper 47 (the respective sizes oforiginal 43 and paper 47 may be identified by means of prescribedsensor(s) and/or may be identified as a result of communication by theuser).

If, for example, original 43 is photograph size L and paper 47 is sizeA4, copy magnification might be set to 233% in order to permit propernormal copying of the image of original 43 onto the entirety of paper 47(such functionality will hereinafter be referred to as “page fittingfunctionality”). In such a case, in order to adjustquasi-borderless-copy printer margin 45C within the aforementioned range(i.e., within the range from normal-copy printer margin 45A tocompletely-borderless-copy printer margin 45B), the multimode hybridprinter might in QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE further adjust within aspecific range (e.g., within a range from 233% to 252%) the copymagnification of “233%” which was obtained as a result of the foregoingadjustment. As shown in FIG. 14, the print start location of the scanimage which has been corrected in size based on adjusted magnificationmay be adjusted based on calculation and/or preprepared table(s)(table(s) recording respective print start location(s) corresponding torespective magnification(s)).

Furthermore, in the foregoing sequence of operations, where COMPLETELYBORDERLESS COPY MODE and/or QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE has beenspecified despite the fact that size(s) of printing paper 47 specifiedby user(s) is/are not size(s) accommodating borderless printing,message(s) to the effect that specified copy mode(s) cannot be executedmight be displayed at display screen(s) at control panel(s).

Furthermore, in the foregoing sequence of operations, where copymagnification(s) greater than unity magnification (i.e., for enlargedcopy or copies) and/or copy magnification(s) less than unitymagnification (i.e., for reduced copy or copies) have been specified byuser(s), size(s) of scan image(s) 80 may be enlarged and/or reducedbased on such copy magnification(s). In the event that enlarged and/orreduced image(s) of scanned original(s) do not fit within printregion(s) as defined by printer margin(s) 45A, 45B, and/or 45C in any ofthe several foregoing copy modes, it or they may be corrected in size(i.e., it or they may be reduced and/or portion(s) extending beyondprint region(s) may be cropped off therefrom) so as to cause it or theyto fit within the print region(s). On the other hand, in the event thatenlarged and/or reduced scan image(s) do fit within print region(s) asdefined by printer margin(s) 45A, 45B, and/or 45C, it or they may beprinted at the approximate center of printing paper 47 either withoutfurther modification—there being no particular occasion for sizecorrection—or after first being enlarged to size(s) matching such printregion(s).

Furthermore, in the foregoing sequence of operations, the multimodehybrid printer might accept selection with respect to which is to begiven priority: specified copy magnification(s) (and/or copymagnification(s) calculated by means of page fitting functionality) orspecified copy mode(s). In such case, in the event that it is selectedthat priority should be given to copy magnification(s), the multimodehybrid printer would print scan image(s) 80 as corrected in size inaccordance with specified copy magnification(s) without furthermodification even where, as a result of correction of size(s) of suchimage(s) in accordance with such copy magnification(s), printing ofsize-corrected image(s) without further modification would make itimpossible to successfully execute user-specified copy mode(s) (e.g.,where printing would result in formation of margin-like space(s) despitethe fact that COMPLETELY BORDERLESS COPY MODE was specified). On theother hand, in the event that it is specified that priority should begiven to copy mode(s), if printing of image(s) as corrected in size inaccordance with user-specified copy magnification(s) without furthermodification would make it impossible to successfully executeuser-specified copy mode(s) (e.g., when printing would result information of margin-like space(s) despite the fact that COMPLETELYBORDERLESS COPY MODE has been specified), the multimode hybrid printerwould further correct size(s) of size-corrected image(s) so as to makeit possible to successfully execute user-specified copy mode(s) beforeprinting same.

As described above, in accordance with the foregoing second embodiment,it is possible for scanner margin 41 to be set to a small sizeconsistent with the high mechanical precision of the scanner mechanismrather than being set so as to be equal in size to the large printermargin 45A employed for normal copying. This makes it possible to carryout borderless copying at magnification(s) closer to that or thosedesired by user(s) (e.g., unity magnification) than would be the casewere conventional borderless-printing printer technology to be appliedwithout modification to a conventional hybrid printer.

Furthermore, in accordance with the foregoing second embodiment, a mode,i.e., QUASI-BORDERLESS COPY MODE, for carrying out copying in a fashionthat is intermediate between normal copying and completely borderlesscopying is available. In quasi-borderless copy mode, the size of scanimage 80 is corrected so as to be larger than would be the case fornormal copying but smaller than would be the case for completelyborderless copying. This being the case, it is possible to carry outcompletely borderless copying at magnification(s) closer tomagnification(s) desired by user(s) (e.g., unity magnification).

Moreover, variations such as the following could also be contemplated inconnection with this second embodiment.

To with, printer margin adjustment screen 1000 such as that shown by wayof example in FIG. 15 might be displayed at a control panel of themultimode hybrid printer (or if a host apparatus is connected to themultimode hybrid printer, at a display screen of the host apparatus).Printer margin adjustment screen 1000 may be employed to freely adjustprinter margin(s) so as to be within prescribed range(s). Below, printermargin adjustment screen 1000 is described in detail (note, moreover,that scanner margin in the present embodiment is assumed to be “1.5mm”).

Printer margin adjustment screen 1000 is provided with original sizedisplay area(s) 1001, specified print magnification display area(s)1005, printing paper size display area(s) 1002, printer marginadjustment area(s) 1003, andprint-magnification-after-adjustment-of-printer-margin display area(s)1004.

Displayed at original size display area 1001 is/are size(s) oforiginal(s) placed on original stage(s) 60. Moreover, original size(s)displayed at this original size display area 1001 may be automaticallyidentified by the multimode hybrid printer and/or may be manually inputby user(s).

Displayed at printing paper size display area 1002 is/are size(s) ofpaper on which printing is to be carried out as contained in currentsettings.

Displayed at specified print magnification display area 1005 is/areprint magnification(s) (e.g., 100%) as manually specified by user(s).Moreover, in the event that, for example, original size(s) displayed atoriginal size display area 1001 and printing paper size(s) displayed atprinting paper size display area 1002 are different, printmagnification(s) displayed at this area 1005 may be printmagnification(s) as automatically adjusted by page fittingfunctionality.

Displayed at printer margin adjustment area 1003 in touch panel fashionor in other such fashion as to permit selection thereamong are aplurality of (e.g., five) printer margins. Furthermore, also displayedat printer margin adjustment area 1003 for each of the plurality ofselectable printer margins is a description of what printing would belike if printing were to actually be carried out with that printermargin (this need only be some emblematic representation on the likesufficient to convey a sense of what printing would be like for each).

Displayed at print-magnification-after-adjustment-of-printer-margindisplay area 1004 are a plurality of (e.g., five) print magnificationsas would result after adjustment of printer margin, these respectivelycorresponding to the aforementioned plurality of printer margins. “Printmagnification after adjustment of printer margin” shows how printermargin settings affect print magnification for a given specified printmagnification. Taking the situation depicted in the drawing, in theevent, for example, that 100% printing (i.e., printing at unitymagnification) is specified, selecting a printer margin of “1.5 mm”—thisbeing identical in size to the scanner margin of “1.5 mm”—might resultin display to the effect that 100% printing will definitely be possible.But despite the fact, for example, that 100% printing has beenspecified, setting printer margin to “−3 mm”—this being considerablydifferent from the scanner margin of “1.5 mm”—might result in display tothe effect that print magnification will increase to 105%. Whenspecified print magnification (i.e., print magnification displayed atspecified print magnification display area 1005) is changed, therespective print magnifications as would result after adjustment ofprinter margin which are displayed atprint-magnification-after-adjustment-of-printer-margin display area 1004are automatically changed in correspondence thereto.

In accordance with the present embodiment, the user can, at this printermargin adjustment screen 1000, select desired printer margin(s) fromamong a plurality of printer margins, with copying being carried outconsistent with the selected printer margin(s). This makes it possibleto accurately obtain copy results as desired.

Note also that the manner of printer margin adjustment need not belimited to that shown in FIG. 15. For example, adjustment may beaccomplished by means of increase and/or decrease in prescribedincrements.

A great many variations are possible with respect to the foregoingembodiments. For example, the printer mechanism employed in the hybridprinter is not limited to that of an inkjet printer, it being possibleto employ that of other types of printer; e.g., that of a laser printer.Furthermore, paper size(s) for which it is possible to carry outborderless printing is/are not limited to the three presented above.Either a greater number or a lesser number of such size(s) is possible(for example, print mechanism(s) and the like may be constituted in suchfashion as to permit photograph size L and/or photograph size 2L to bepaper size(s) for which it is possible to carry out borderlessprinting).

FIG. 16 shows constitution and function of the principal parts of athird embodiment of a hybrid printer in accordance with the presentinvention.

This hybrid printer has mechanical construction as is shown in FIG. 1;furthermore, as shown in FIG. 16, there are at the interior thereofscanner circuitry 210, ASIC(s) (Application Specific IC(s)) 220,firmware (i.e., microprocessor(s) executing firmware) 230, printengine(s) 240, and storage device(s) 250.

Scanner circuitry 210 carries out image scan processing 211, scanning inimage(s) of original(s) placed on original stage(s). At such time,firmware 230 carries out scan control 231, controlling image scanprocessing 211 so as to cause scanning of scan region(s) determined incorrespondence to original size(s) specified by user(s). Original scanimage data 251 output from scanner circuitry 210 is temporarily storedin storage device(s) 250 such as, for example, RAM and/or hard drive(s).

ASIC 220 reads scan image data 251 from storage device 250 and moreovercarries out image enlargement processing 221, enlarging such scan imagedata 251 by a certain amount (e.g., enlargement might be 105% whenoriginal size is A4, enlargement might be 109% when original size isJapanese postcard size, etc.). Enlarged image data 252 is temporarilystored in storage device 250. ASIC 220 thereafter reads enlarged imagedata 252 from storage device 250 and moreover carries out colorconversion/halftoning processing 222, converting such enlarged imagedata 252 (e.g., RGB full-color image data) into enlarged dot image data253 (e.g., CMYK binary image data) by means of which the initial imageis represented in simulated fashion through employment of an ink dotmatrix. Enlarged dot image data 253 is temporarily stored in storagedevice 250. It so happens that in the present embodiment ASIC(s) is/areemployed for carrying out image enlargement processing 221 and colorconversion/halftoning processing 222, but this need not be the case,that being merely presented by way of example. It is also possible tocarry out either image enlargement processing 221 or colorconversion/halftoning processing 222, or both image enlargementprocessing 221 and color conversion/halftoning processing 222, by, forexample, executing firmware or other such computer program instead of orin combination with ASIC(s).

Firmware 230 reads enlarged dot image data 253 from storage device 250and moreover carries out cropping processing 232, extracting aseffective print image data 254 the portion(s) remaining after deletionof unwanted perimeter portion(s) from enlarged dot image data 253.Extracted print image data 254 is temporarily stored in storage device250 and is thereafter transferred to print engine 240. Print engine 240uses print image data 254 to drive printhead(s), as a result of whichprintout(s) is/are created.

FIG. 17 shows a plan view of an original stage for explaining originalstage scan region(s) scanned by means of scanner circuitry 210 in asituation where four-sided borderless copying is being carried out.

At FIG. 17, reference numeral 260 indicates an original stage frame,this frame being constituted by the hybrid printer housing. Capturedwithin this frame 260 is plate glass original stage 261. A user mightplace an original of desired size on glass original stage 261, and mightspecify to the hybrid printer that the size of the original so placedis, for example, A4 or B5. While hybrid printer might not directly knowthe size or location of the original actually placed on glass originalstage 261, it might assume that an original 262 of size as specified bythe user has been placed on glass original stage 261 at standardlocation and in standard orientation (e.g., as shown by way of examplein FIG. 17, at such location and in such orientation as to cause theupper left corner, top (short) edge, and left (long) edge of thatoriginal 262 to respectively match the upper left corner, top (short)edge, and left (long) edge of glass original stage 261). An original 262assumed to exist in this fashion will hereinafter be distinguished froman actual original by referring to same as an “assumed original.”

Enlarging the region occupied by assumed original 262 on glass originalstage 261 somewhat outward therefrom so as to accommodate top, bottom,left, and right margins 264, 265, 266, and 267 of prescribeddimension(s), the hybrid printer establishes such enlarged region 263 asscan region. In other words, scan region 263 is established in suchmanner as to cause assumed original 262 to be completely enclosed byscan region 263 with sufficient clearance therebetween to accommodatetop, bottom, left, and right margins 264, 265, 266 and 267. By thuscausing scan region 263 to be established such that it is larger byappropriate amount(s) than assumed original 262, the actual originalwill in most cases, so long as the size of the actual original placed onoriginal stage 261 matches the size specified by the user, lie withinthe actual scan region (meaning that the entire region of the actualoriginal will be scanned) despite any slight deviation which may existin the position of the actual scan region relative to established scanregion 263 attributable to the mechanical precision of the scannermechanism and/or despite what could be moderate deviation in theorientation and location of the actual original relative to standardorientation and location. A value of 1.5 mm might, for example, beemployed for top and left margins 264 and 266; a value of 3 mm might,for example, be employed for bottom and right margins 265 and 267.

The hybrid printer scans scan region 263, which is somewhat larger thanassumed original 262 as has been described, the image data correspondingto this scan region 263 being output as scan image data 251 shown inFIG. 16. As described above, the scan image data 251 which is so outputwill in most cases contain image data for the entire region of theactual original placed on glass original stage 261.

FIG. 18 is a drawing showing image size(s) for explaining imageenlargement processing 221 and cropping processing 232 in the context offour-sided borderless copying.

As indicated by arrow 279 in FIG. 18, during image enlargementprocessing 221, image data corresponding to scan region 263 (scan imagedata 251 at FIG. 16) is enlarged at prescribed enlargement about centerpoint 263C thereof, transforming it into image data of size as indicatedat region (hereinafter “enlarged scan region”) 271 shown in the drawing.Image data corresponding to this enlarged scan region 271 is theenlarged image data 252 shown in FIG. 16. Within the image datacorresponding to this enlarged scan region 271, image data correspondingto initial assumed original 262 is enlarged, as indicated by arrow 278,to become image data of size as at region (hereinafter “enlarged paperregion”) 273, which is somewhat larger in size than print media(printing paper) 272 previously specified by the user. This enlargedpaper region 273 is equal to a size obtainable by enlarging the size ofprint media 272 outward by amount(s) sufficient to accommodate top,bottom, left, and right printer margins 274, 275, 276, and 277 ofprescribed dimension(s).

Thereafter, during cropping processing 232, that portion 280 (indicatedby cross-hatching at FIG. 18) of the image data corresponding toenlarged scan region 271 that lies to the exterior of enlarged paperregion 273 is deleted, only the image data corresponding to enlargedpaper region 273 being extracted therefrom. The image data correspondingto enlarged paper region 273 extracted in this fashion is the printimage data 254 shown in FIG. 16. This print image data 254 istransferred to print engine 340, where it is used to drive theprinthead.

As described above, print image data 254 (image data corresponding toenlarged paper region 273) is equal to a size obtainable by enlargingthe size of print media 272 outward by amount(s) sufficient toaccommodate top, bottom, left, and right printer margins 274, 275, 276,and 277 of prescribed dimension(s). As a result, even if the position ofthe actual print media as supplied to the platen deviates somewhat fromthe standard position therefor due to the mechanical precision of thepaper feed mechanism of print engine 340, the actual print media will inmost cases lie completely within the region (enlarged paper region 273)on the platen occupied by the print image data, this being the regionwhich is scanned by the printhead. As a result, four-sided borderlesscopying is made possible. Here, as specific examples of the dimensionsof the aforementioned top, bottom, left, and right printer margins 274,275, 276, and 277, 3 mm may be employed therefor.

While it need not always be so, the size of the original and the size ofthe print media will in many cases be the same. Where the two are thesame, specific examples of values of enlargements employable duringimage enlargement processing 221 might be 105% where the specified sizeof the original is for example standard A4 size (210 mm×297 mm), or 109%where the specified size of the original is for example the Japanesepostcard size (100 mm×148 mm).

FIG. 19 shows constitution and function of the principal parts of afourth embodiment of a hybrid printer in accordance with the presentinvention.

This hybrid printer has mechanical construction as is shown in FIG. 1;furthermore, as shown in FIG. 19, there are at the interior thereofscanner circuitry 310, ASIC(s) (Application Specific IC(s)) 320,firmware (i.e., microprocessor(s) executing firmware) 330, printengine(s) 340, and storage device(s) 350.

Scanner circuitry 310 is capable of carrying out prescan processing 311and/or main scan processing 312 in manual and/or automatic fashion. Inthe event that four-sided borderless copying is to be carried out,scanner circuitry 310 might automatically carry out prescan processing311 and main scan processing 312, in this order, in continuous andautomated fashion. At time(s) when prescan processing 311 and/or mainscan processing 312 is/are being carried out, firmware 330 carries outscan control 332, controlling scan region(s) and resolution(s) inconnection with the respective types of processing.

During prescan processing 311, the entire region which could conceivablybe occupied by original(s) (e.g., the entire region of the glassoriginal stage) is scanned at high speed at some prescribed lowresolution (e.g., 50 dpi). Prescan image data 351 corresponding to theentire original stage and obtained as a result of prescan processing 311is temporarily stored in storage device(s) 350 such as, for example, RAMand/or hard drive(s).

After prescan processing 311 has been carried out, firmware 330 readsprescan image data 351 from storage device 350 and moreover carries outoriginal region detection processing 331 with respect to prescan imagedata 351, detecting region(s) on the original stage at which actualoriginal(s) exist.

Any of a variety of methods may be employed as method for originalregion detection processing 331. The procedure listed at (1) through(5), below, represents one of such methods, which is presented here byway of example.

(1) Brightness values of respective pixels of prescan image data 351 arebinarized based on prescribed threshold(s). Where, for example,brightness values range from 0 to 255, a threshold of 210 might, forexample, be employed.

(2) The binary prescan image data 351 is subjected to downsampling. Forexample, each 4×4=16 pixels of binary prescan image data 351 can, bysubjecting same to OR operation(s), be converted into 1 pixel ofdownsampled binary prescan image data 351. In this example, theresolution of binary prescan image data 351 is reduced to one-fourth ofits initial resolution. Note that, hereinafter, the initial resolutionof binary prescan image data 351 will be referred to as the secondresolution thereof, and the resolution obtained as a result ofdownsampling will be referred to as the first resolution thereof

(3) First-resolution binary prescan image data 351 obtained bydownsampling is subjected to labeling processing. While it is possibleto use any of a variety of algorithms for labeling processing, as oneexample thereof, two-pass-type labeling processing based on8-connectivity might be employed. As a result of labeling processing,groups of mutually connected pixels for which pixel value is equal to 1(labeled region(s) of pixel value 1) are extracted from first-resolutionbinary prescan image data 351.

(4) Labeled region(s) which have been extracted are subjected to noisereduction processing, noise region(s) present due to inclusion of dirt,dust, and/or the like during prescan of the original being removed fromlabeled region(s).

(5) Following noise reduction processing, the smallest rectangularregion that completely encompasses the labeled region(s) is extracted asthe original region.

After the original region has been detected within prescan image data351 in such fashion, original region data 355 indicating the position ofthat original region on the original stage is temporarily stored atstorage device 350. Prescan image data 351 is deleted from storagedevice 350.

Main scan processing 312, performed by scanner circuitry 310, isautomatically executed thereafter. During main scan processing 312,firmware 330 uses original region data 355 to control the scan region soas to cause the entire expanse of the detected original region to becompletely scanned (in other words, so as to cause the detected originalregion to be completely enclosed by the scan region). Here, the scanregion may be controlled so as to cause it to exactly match the detectedoriginal region or may be controlled so as to cause it to be somewhatlarger than the detected original region as sufficient to accommodateprescribed scanner margin(s). Main scan image data 352 obtained as aresult of main scan processing 312 is temporarily stored at storagedevice 350.

ASIC 320 reads main scan image data 352 from storage device 350 andmoreover carries out image enlargement processing 321, enlarging mainscan image data 352 by a certain amount. Enlarged image data 352 istemporarily stored in storage device 350. ASIC 320 thereafter readsenlarged image data 353 from storage device 350 and moreover carries outcolor conversion/halftoning processing 322, converting such enlargedimage data 353 (e.g., RGB full-color image data) into enlarged dot imagedata 354 (e.g., CMYK binary image data) by means of which the initialimage is represented in simulated fashion through employment of an inkdot matrix. Enlarged dot image data 354 is temporarily stored in storagedevice 350. Note that either image enlargement processing 321 or colorconversion/halftoning processing 322, or both image enlargementprocessing 321 and color conversion/halftoning processing 322, may becarried out by, for example, executing firmware or other such computerprogram instead of or in combination with ASIC(s).

Firmware 330 reads enlarged dot image data 354 from storage device 350and moreover carries out cropping processing 333, deleting unwantedperimeter portion(s) from enlarged dot image data 354 and extracting aseffective print image data 356 the portion(s) which remain. Extractedprint image data 356 is temporarily stored in storage device 350 and isthereafter transferred to print engine 340. Print engine 340 uses printimage data 356 to drive printhead(s), as a result of which printout(s)is/are created.

FIG. 20 shows a plan view of an original stage for explaining scanregion(s) in connection with prescan and main scan in the context offour-sided borderless copying.

At FIG. 20, plate glass original stage 261 is captured within originalstage frame 260, this frame being constituted by the hybrid printerhousing. A user might place an original 362 of desired size on glassoriginal stage 261, and might request that the hybrid printer carry outfour-sided borderless copying. Upon so doing, the hybrid printer mightcarry out the aforementioned prescan processing 311. The scan regionemployed during prescan processing 311 is set so as to be a region whichincludes the entire region that could conceivably be occupied byoriginal(s) 362, e.g., a region 361 somewhat larger than glass originalstage 261. The hybrid printer scans this prescan scan region 361 at highspeed and outputs image data corresponding to this scan region 361(prescan image data 351 at FIG. 19).

Next, the aforementioned original region detection processing 331 iscarried out, actual original region 362 being detected within scanregion 361. The aforementioned main scan processing 312 is thereaftercarried out, detected original region 362 being scanned. While the scanregion employed during main scan processing 312, even when found to beexactly identical to original region 362, may be made somewhat largerthan same in order to accommodate prescribed scanner margin(s) (i.e.,the only requirement here being that original region 362 be completelyenclosed by scan region 263), the description which follows is, forconvenience of description, predicated upon a situation in which a scanregion exactly identical to original region 362 is employed.

FIG. 21 is a drawing showing image size(s) for explaining imageenlargement processing 321 and cropping processing 333 in the context offour-sided borderless copying.

As indicated by arrow 378 in FIG. 21, during image enlargementprocessing 321, image data corresponding to original region 362 (mainscan image data 352 at FIG. 19) is enlarged about center point 362Cthereof, transforming it into image data of size such as that of region(hereinafter referred to as “enlarged original region”) 371 shown in thedrawing. Image data corresponding to this enlarged original region 371is the enlarged image data 353 shown in FIG. 19. The horizontaldimension or the vertical dimension (preferably whichever is shorter) ofthis enlarged original region 371 is equal to that of a region(hereinafter “enlarged paper region”) 273 somewhat larger than printmedia (printing paper) 272 previously specified by the user. Thisenlarged paper region 273 is equal to a size obtainable by enlarging thesize of print media (printing paper) 272 outward by amount(s) sufficientto accommodate top, bottom, left, and right printer margins 274, 275,276, and 277 of prescribed dimension(s). In the event that the aspectratio of original region 362 is the same as that of print media 272,enlarged original region 371 will match enlarged paper region 273. Butwhere, as at the example shown in FIG. 21, the aspect ratio of originalregion 362 is different from that of print media 272, enlarged originalregion 371 will be larger, in the horizontal or the vertical dimension,than enlarged paper region 273. Here, as specific examples of thedimensions of the aforementioned top, bottom, left, and right printermargins 274, 275, 276, and 277, 3 mm may be employed therefor.

Thereafter, during cropping processing 333, that portion 372 (indicatedby cross-hatching at FIG. 21) of the image data corresponding toenlarged original region 371 that lies to the exterior of enlarged paperregion 273 is deleted, only the image data corresponding to enlargedpaper region 273 being extracted therefrom. The image data correspondingto enlarged paper region 273 extracted in this fashion is the printimage data 356 shown in FIG. 21. This print image data 356 istransferred to print engine 340, where it is used to drive theprinthead.

It so happens, where original(s) is/are placed on original stage(s) 12,that each of the hybrid printers associated with the foregoing firstthrough fourth embodiments establishes scan region(s) based on theoriginal(s) itself or themselves. However, in a variation thereof, ahybrid printer might establish scan region(s) based not on theoriginal(s) itself or themselves, but based on region(s) which is/aresubset(s) of original stage(s); particularly region(s) at which specificcopy subject(s) within original(s) is/are discernible (e.g., specificcharacter(s), character string(s), photograph(s), picture(s),graphic(s), any combination hereof, etc.). FIG. 24 shows such anexample. As shown in FIG. 24, character string 640 and/or photograph (orpicture) (indicated by cross-hatching) 641 might, for example, bediscernible within original 600. There are situations in which the copysubject might be not all of original 600 but only, for example,character string 640 and/or only photograph 641. For example, where thecopy subject is only character string 640, the hybrid printer mightidentify region 644 corresponding to character string 640 withinoriginal 600, and might establish scan region 646 and/or 648 based onthis character string region 644. At such time, the hybrid printer mayestablish scan region 646 which matches or is slightly larger thanregion 644 corresponding to character string 640, and/or may establishscan region 648 which is slightly smaller than region 644 correspondingto character string 640. Furthermore, where for example the copy subjectis only photograph 641, the hybrid printer might identify region 642corresponding to photograph 641 within original 600, and might establishscan region 650 and/or 652 based on this photograph region 642. At suchtime, the hybrid printer may establish scan region 650 which matches oris slightly larger than photograph region 642, and/or may establish scanregion 652 which is slightly smaller than photograph region 642. Inorder to thus establish scan region(s) based not on region(s)corresponding to original(s) 600 itself or themselves but based onregion(s) corresponding to copy subject(s), it is necessary for thehybrid printer to identify in advance where region(s) corresponding tocopy subject(s) is/are within original(s). To this end, the hybridprinter may employ method(s) in which region(s) corresponding to copysubject(s) is/are detected, and/or method(s) in which region(s)corresponding to copy subject(s) is/are specified by user(s). In amethod in which the region corresponding to the copy subject isdetected, the hybrid printer might automatically detect the copy subject(e.g., character string 640 and/or photograph 641 shown in FIG. 24) byprocessing an image of the original stage obtained through prescanning,and might deem the smallest rectangular region that would encompass thedetected copy subject to be the region corresponding to the copysubject. Furthermore, in a method in which the region corresponding tothe copy subject is specified by the user, the hybrid printer mightdisplay an image of the original stage obtained through prescanning soas to permit the user to select the copy subject region within thedisplayed original stage image, and the region selected by the usermight be deemed to be the region corresponding to the copy subject.Description of operation and function of hybrid printer 1 in the contextof establishment of scan region(s) based on region(s) corresponding tocopy subject(s) within original(s) such as has been mentioned may beobtained by reading “copy subject(s)” in place of the term “original” or“original(s)” where these appear within the foregoing description ofoperation and function of hybrid printers associated with the firstthrough fourth embodiments.

Any of the hybrid printers associated with the foregoing first throughfourth embodiments may, in addition to the functionalities describedabove, also be provided with the following first and/or secondfunctionalities.

The first functionality is a borderless print mode in which image datais input from image-containing-data source(s) other than scannercircuitry, and four-sided and/or two-sided borderless printing of suchimage data is carried out. What is here referred to asimage-containing-data source(s) other than scanner circuitry may includesource(s) internal to the hybrid printer and/or source(s) external tothe hybrid printer. Image-containing-data source(s) internal to thehybrid printer may, for example, include nonvolatile memory or memoriessuch as EEPROM internal to the hybrid printer, internal hard drive(s)and/or other such data storage device(s), and/or the like.Image-containing-data source(s) external to the hybrid printer may, forexample, include personal computer(s) and/or other such hostapparatus(es), hard drive(s), digital camera(s), mobile telephone(s),PDA(s), portable recording medium or media (e.g., memory card(s) capableof being installed at the hybrid printer), and/or other suchimage-containing-data output device(s) capable of being connected to thehybrid printer by way of prescribed communication interface(s) (e.g.,USB and/or Bluetooth™).

Selection of borderless copy mode(s) and/or borderless print mode(s)and/or switching therebetween may be controlled in manual fashion byuser(s) and/or may be controlled in automatic fashion by the hybridprinter. For example, the hybrid printer might automatically selectborderless print mode(s) in response to prescribed event(s) such as whenexternal image-containing-data source(s) is/are communicatably connectedthereto and/or when image data is received from such otherimage-containing-data source(s).

The second functionality is a superposed print mode in which image dataobtained as a result of scanning by scanner circuitry and image datainput from such image-containing-data source(s) other than scannercircuitry are printed in superposed fashion. Selection of borderlesscopy mode(s), borderless print mode(s), and/or superposed print mode(s),and/or switching therebetween or thereamong, may be controlled manuallyby user(s) and/or may be controlled automatically.

In superposed print mode, where four-sided and/or two-sided borderlessprinting is to be carried out, enlargement processing of scan image dataand/or image data input thereinto may be carried out before processingto superpose such data and/or after such data has been superposed.Furthermore, in superposed print mode, additional image operation(s);e.g., additional enlargement and/or reduction processing, various typesof filter processing (e.g., color tone correction, conversion fromfull-color image(s) to monochromatic image(s), alteration of colortone(s), and/or the like), and/or the like may be applied to scan imagedata, input image data, and/or superposed image data.

Furthermore, in superposed print mode, superposed position setting(s),e.g., what position within input image data is to be aligned with whatposition within scan image data during superposition, may be controlledin manual fashion by user(s) and/or may be controlled in automaticfashion by the hybrid printer (e.g., the location of the center of theregion subject to printing in input image data might automatically bemade to coincide with the location of the center of scan image data).

Furthermore, in superposed print mode, input image data may, forexample, be photograph image data supplied from image-containing-datasource(s), e.g., digital camera(s), external to the hybrid printer,and/or may be ornamental image data previously stored atimage-containing-data source(s) internal to the hybrid printer. What ishere referred to as “ornamental component image-containing-data” is, forexample, data for any of various types of ornamental images such asbackgrounds, decorative frames, inset illustrations, and/or other suchtext, graphics, designs, patterns, and/or other such features capable ofbeing added to print image(s).

FIG. 25 shows a variation on the foregoing fourth embodiment in whichborderless print mode and superposed print mode functionalities havebeen added.

When operations are carried out in accordance with borderless printmode, image input circuitry 702 of the hybrid printer might accept inputof image data 704 from image-containing-data source 700 as indicated bythe arrows drawn with dashed lines in FIG. 25. Image enlargementprocessing 321 is carried out on this input image data 704, as a resultof which input image data 704 (or region(s) subject to printingtherewithin) is enlarged so as to be a size slightly larger than theprinting paper, producing enlarged image data 710. Enlarged image data710 is thereafter converted to print image data 714 in accordance with aprocedure similar to that which has already been described withreference to borderless copy mode(s), and four-sided or two-sidedborderless printing is carried out.

When operations are carried out in accordance with superposed printmode, image input circuitry 702 of the hybrid printer might accept inputof image data 704 from image-containing-data source 700 as indicated bythe arrows drawn with alternating long and short dashed lines in FIG.25. Moreover, superposition processing 706 is carried out, input imagedata 704 (or region(s) subject to printing therewithin) from image inputcircuitry 702 and main scan image data 352 (or copy subject region(s)therewithin) from scanner circuitry 310 being superposed, producingsuperposed image data 708. Image enlargement processing 321 is carriedout on this superposed image data 708, as a result of which either orboth of main scan image data 352 (or copy subject region(s) therewithin)and input image data 704 (or region(s) subject to printing therewithin)contained within superposed image data 708 is/are enlarged so as to besize(s) slightly larger than the printing paper, converting superposedimage data 708 into enlarged image data 710. For example, where inputimage data 704 or main scan image data 352 is a photographic image andthe other is the image of a border decoration which is to be applied tothe edges at the four sides of that photographic image, the two might besuperposed so as to produce superposed image data 708 either withoutenlargement of the photographic image (either preserving the initialsize thereof or reducing same as necessary) and/or with enlargement ofonly the border decoration image such that it is slightly larger thanthe printing paper. Alternatively, in superposing the two to producesuperposed image data 708, the photographic image and the borderdecoration image might both be enlarged so as to be slightly larger thanthe printing paper. In the context of the foregoing, selection of which(if any) among a plurality of images to be superposed is/are to beenlarged and/or which (if any) thereamong is/are not to be enlarged(and/or is/are to be reduced) may be performed by user(s) and/or may beperformed automatically by the hybrid printer. Enlarged image data 710is thereafter converted to print image data 714 in accordance with aprocedure similar to that which has already been described withreference to borderless copy mode(s), and four-sided or two-sidedborderless printing is carried out.

Whereas a number of preferred embodiments of the present invention havebeen described above, these have been presented as examples for purposesof describing the present invention and without intent to limit thescope of the present invention to these embodiments alone. The presentinvention may be carried out in the context of a wide variety of othermodes and embodiments. For example, the present invention may be appliedto a facsimile communication system in which original(s) is/are scannedby facsimile transmitter(s) and the scan image data is sent to facsimilereceiver(s), facsimile receiver(s) using such scan image data to carryout four-sided and/or two-sided borderless printing.

In the foregoing embodiments, one scan region was established atoriginal stage(s). However, in variations thereof, a plurality of scanregions may be established at original stage(s). For example, where asingle original contains a plurality of photographic images, a pluralityof scan regions might respectively be established in correspondence tosuch plurality of photographic images. Or where a film scanner forscanning photographic filmstrips (originals) containing series ofphotographs in the form of photographic frames is employed, a pluralityof scan regions might respectively be established in correspondence to aplurality of photographic frames within a single photographic filmstrip.Or where a duplex scanner for scanning images on the two sides, i.e.,front and back, of a single original is employed, at least two scanregions might respectively be established in correspondence to the twosides of the original. Moreover, image processing for carrying outfour-sided and/or two-sided borderless copying in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention may be applied to each of suchplurality of scan regions.

Furthermore, the foregoing embodiments may employ flatbed-type imagescanner(s) having flat original stage(s). However, variations thereonmay employ other type(s) of image scanner(s); e.g., drum-type imagescanner(s) having rotatable drum-shaped original stage(s);automatic-sheet-feeder-type image scanner(s) having strip-like originalstage(s) and automatic sheet feeder(s), scanning being carried out bycausing original sheet(s) to move over original stage(s) by means ofautomatic sheet feeder(s); portable-type scanner(s) possessing compactbody or bodies having strip-like original stage(s) at outer surface(s)thereof, scanning being carried out when original stage(s) of body orbodies held by user(s) is/are moved as if to wipe original sheet(s)therewith; and so forth.

Further, the present invention is not only applicable to four-sided ortwo-sided borderless copying as described above, but also applicable toone-sided or three-sided borderless copying.

1. A printer system comprising: an outputting portion configured tooutput image data based on original data; an image processor configuredto receive image data and to generate print data based on the receivedimage data; a printer configured to print on a print medium based on theprint data; and a setting portion configured to set a print targetregion, which includes a region to be printed, based on an indicationindicated for original data by a user; wherein the outputting portion isconfigured to output the image data, which matches or is larger than theprint target image region, and which encompasses the print target imageregion; and wherein the image processor is configured to generate theprint data, so as to cause at least two opposing sides among outer edgeportions of the print data to be outside the edge of the print medium.2. A printer system according to claim 1, wherein the printer isconfigured to carry out four-sided borderless printing on the printmedium based on the print data.
 3. A printing method comprising:generating image data based on original data, wherein the generatedimage data matches or is larger than a print target image region whichincludes a region to be printed, and encompasses the print target imageregion, the print image region being set by an indication indicated forthe original data by a user; generating print data based on the originaldata, so as to cause at least two opposing sides among outer edgeportions of the print data to be outside the edge of a print medium; andprinting on the print medium based on the print data.
 4. A printingmethod according to claim 3, wherein the printing on the print mediumbased on the print data comprises carrying out four-sided borderlessprinting.